Housing Policies in the Service of Social and Spatial (In)Equality

The publication "Housing Policies in the Service of Social and Spatial (In)Equality," authored by Iva Marčetić and published by Pravo na grad, delves into the complexities of housing policies in Croatia, focusing on their impact on social and spatial inequalities. The document highlights the interplay between historical housing frameworks and contemporary challenges faced by citizens, particularly younger generations who struggle with access to affordable housing.

The publication outlines the historically high levels of homeownership in Croatia, with around 90% of households owning their homes. However, it also reveals that many of these homes are overcrowded, with a significant portion of younger individuals remaining in their parental homes due to financial constraints. The book discusses the transitions from socially-owned housing systems to privatization, citing how these changes have exacerbated inequalities.

The transition from public to private ownership has significantly altered the housing landscape. With only about 2% of Croatia's housing stock currently under public management, the document highlights the fragmented nature of housing policies that developed post-privatization. The housing reform process, initiated in the early 1990s, led to a focus on market-oriented solutions and individual homeownership, often at the expense of social welfare.

Marčetić emphasizes the generational divide in housing wealth, noting that those born in the 1980s and later have significantly less housing wealth compared to previous generations. The average age to move out of parents' homes is 33, with 70% of 18-34-year-olds still living at home. This trend underscores the urgent need for effective housing policies that address the needs of younger populations.

The publication examines the effects of the Publicly Subsidized Housing Construction Programme (POS), which aimed to provide affordable housing options. Despite some success, the programme's impact has been limited, with only about 9,363 apartments built since its inception. The funding structure heavily favors those who can access loans, leaving vulnerable populations without adequate housing solutions.

The document explores the financialization of housing, particularly the rise of housing debt and its implications for affordability. Between 2000 and 2008, housing debt surged, leading to a disparity between income levels and housing costs. The publication indicates that, despite increased access to loans, housing affordability has significantly decreased, exacerbating existing inequalities.

The publication concludes by calling for a reevaluation of housing policies to prioritize sustainability and inclusivity. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive public housing programs that can effectively address the housing crisis in Croatia and beyond, ensuring that affordable housing is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic status. This resource offers valuable insights into the relationship between housing policies and social inequalities, serving as a crucial reference for policymakers, researchers, and activists dedicated to promoting sustainable housing solutions across Europe.